The UK’s print and packaging industry is changing quickly in 2025. With a bigger focus on being eco-friendly, new technology, and the need for more skilled workers, both businesses and jobseekers are adjusting to a fast moving job market. Whether you’re looking to hire or find your next role, it helps to know what’s going on in the industry. Here are the biggest trends shaping print and packaging jobs this year.
Sustainability Skills Are a Must
More businesses want to go green, and they need people who know how to help. Jobs like Packaging Technologist and Innovation Manager are now focused on candidates who understand recyclable materials, biodegradable plastics, and eco-friendly packaging designs. It also helps to know about rules like EPR and projects like the UK Plastics Pact, not sure on what the UK Plastics Pact is? Click Here. These skills show you can help a company meet its environmental goals.
Automation and Digital Tech Are Changing Who Gets Hired
Print companies are using more automation and digital tools. Because of this, there’s a big demand for people who know how to work with digital print equipment, smart workflows, and tools like Esko and Heidelberg systems. If you understand both the hands on side of print and how to run modern software, you’ll stand out, especially in fast growing areas like label printing and short run jobs.
Remote and Flexible Work Is Growing
Some areas, like the Midlands and Manchester, still have strong talent pools. But in other places, it’s harder to find skilled print and packaging workers. That’s why more businesses are open to flexible hiring, offering remote roles or helping people relocate. Jobs like Packaging Designers, Project Managers, and Compliance Officers are being filled from a distance, as long as in person work isn’t always needed.
Sales Jobs Need Industry Knowledge
Being good at sales isn’t enough in 2025. Print and packaging companies want people who also understand the products they’re selling. That means knowing about materials, packaging machines, and things like FSC or food safety standards. If you’ve sold into sectors like FMCG, healthcare, or online retail, and can explain how your product works, you’ll be in high demand.
Company Image Matters to Jobseekers
More candidates want to work for businesses that treat people well, offer career growth, and care about things like sustainability. A strong employer brand makes a huge difference in 2025. Companies are sharing behind-the-scenes stories, videos, and employee testimonials to show off their values and culture, and it’s helping them attract top talent.
Senior Roles Are Being Hired More Strategically
Businesses are putting more thought into senior hires. Roles like Head of Packaging, Operations Director, and Sustainability Lead are being filled through trusted recruitment partners (just like us). Because many of these hires are confidential or newly created, companies are turning to experts who know the market and can find the right fit fast.
Let’s Wrap Up
Print and packaging in the UK is changing fast. From going green to using smarter tech, the companies that adapt their hiring strategies will be the ones that grow. At Elev8 Search Group, we help print and packaging businesses find great people for technical, sales, and leadership roles. Whether you’re hiring or job hunting, we’re here to guide you.
Want to talk about hiring or career options? Reach out to us at Elev8 Search Group!
